Page 94 of Take Care, Taylor

“I know it’s only a matter of time before the program calls to award you that six-figure check,” she said. “Given all the writing you’ve shared with me, I know you won.”

“They’ll probably give it to Taylor.” I rolled my eyes. “I’m sure he’s taking full advantage of me not being there and kissing up to all the professors.”

“Is that what you would do, if the roles were reversed?”

“No.” I shook my head. “If he won, he’d deserve it.”

“Then what makes you think he doesn’t feel the same?”

I didn’t answer that. “Can I have some more vodka, please?”

“We finished the bottle last night,” she said. “I’ll have to grab some from the store. Want anything else?”

“No…”

“So, go get your mail from Aunt Lydia’s house, if I’m up to it?”

“That’s almost five hours away,” I said. “No. You going there once a week is enough.”

“Fine. I’ll go get it now.”

“You really don’t need to do that, Cecelia.”

“I do.” She shook her head. “I can’t stand you rereading the old ones—crying and wondering if he’s sent anything new.”

“He emails me,” I said. “I can just check my email.”

“Liar.” She scoffed. “You two are fucking weirdos, and if he were emailing you, you’d have your phone glued to your face half the day instead of those letters.”

I pulled a pillow over my face.

“You’re welcome.” She jiggled her keys. “I’ll go home, do some laundry, run a few errands, and come back tomorrow afternoon.”

TRACK 44. CORNELIA STREET (2:13)

TAYLOR

Coach Harrison

Where the FUCK are you?

We have a GAME this weekend and your little writing stunt is OVER!

Nick (Agent)

Taylor, you’ve got people panicking… Where are you? Are you going to be at practice later today? Tomorrow?

1345 Cornelia Street

No matter how many times I circled the block and double-checked my GPS, the rustic brownstone with white lilies remained the same.

This was where Audrey’s letters and packages had all been forwarded, and I had yet to see her emerge from the front door.

Pulling my car to the curb, I stared ahead and exhaled.

I can’t wait anymore.

I stepped out and headed up the steps. Then I rang the doorbell.